B.A. in Biblical and Theological Studies

Overview

As Christians, the Bible is central to our lives. But to get the most out of God’s Word, we must read it in its historical, cultural and literary contexts, informed along the way by how Christian thought has developed throughout history. Through Biola’s biblical and theological studies major, you’ll develop the tools you need to more effectively study Scripture and theology — whether your plans involve teaching, church ministry or seminary.

The preaching and pastoral ministry concentration is a unique program designed to equip students for leadership and preaching in church or parachurch settings. This specialized concentration allows students to begin taking graduate courses in the senior year, in order to complete an accelerated bachelor's degree and master's degree in preaching and pastoral ministry — typically in a total of just five years. Entry into the concentration requires a special application to the biblical and theological studies department at the end of the freshman or sophomore year. Visit the catalog for application instructions.

Why Choose Biblical and Theological Studies at Biola?

In addition to its strong curriculum and expert faculty members, Biola’s biblical and theological studies program offers several key advantages:

The program is housed within Biola’s Talbot School of Theology, one of the nation’s leading seminaries.

The flexibility of electives allows you to design a program that’s custom-fit to your specific academic or ministry objectives.

5-Year B.A. + M.A. in Preaching and Pastoral Ministry Program

The preaching and pastoral ministry concentration gives you the option of starting a Master of Arts in Preaching and Pastoral Ministry during your senior year — allowing you to earn a B.A. and M.A. together in just five years.

What Will I Study?

Throughout the biblical and theological studies program, you will get well acquainted with biblical content and major doctrines of the Word of God, leading to greater spiritual maturity. The flexibility of electives within this major will enable you to design a program in line with your ministry objectives. Some of the course highlights and topics you will learn about include:

One reason why the biblical studies department excels is because the professors teach with passion, care for their students, and always give glory to God.

Jordan Swigart

Biblical and Theological Studies, B.A. '17

... It was the integration of a biblical worldview with day-to-day life that had the most profound impact. It is easy to teach information, to teach theology, exegesis, although they it can be a very technical task; it is much harder to model life after these teachings.

This indicates the standard duration of this program. Completion time may vary by student depending on background and courseload.

120

Total Program Credits

Total program credits include a combination of major/concentration, Bible/theology and general education credits.

WSCUC

Accreditation

Biola University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission. Additional accreditations may apply to specific programs.

Career Paths

Many career opportunities in Christian and public service await future graduates of Biola's biblical studies program. As a well-equipped believer, you can expect to impact the world for Jesus Christ in professions such as:

Pastor

Evangelist

Missionary

Youth pastor

Children's ministry director

Counselor

Church administrator

Prison or military chaplain

Guidance or mental health counselor

Social worker

What are Graduates Doing Now?

Graduates from Biola's biblical studies major have gone on to study at well-respected graduate schools and seminaries such as: